‘We couldn’t let it not happen’ - Swanland bonfire and fireworks back on
An outcry from people about Swanland’s annual bonfire and fireworks having to be called off has prompted a turnabout.
Organisers of the popular event, Hull Wyke Round Table, said they had regretfully had to pull the plug on the volunteer-led Bonfire Night celebration. Issues around security and health and safety, as well as traffic congestion through Swanland and on the A164 over the past few years had given “serious cause for concern”, they said.
Now local farmer Nick Byass has said: “We couldn’t let it not happen. It’s been so popular and after the news that it was going to have to be cancelled, there was such a demand for something to happen, we thought we would try to team up and put it on for everybody.”
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Nick, who is a member of the Round Table, said it will be a “very similar” event to one that has been held previously but run by a “slightly different group of people”, who are operating under a Friends of Swanland Bonfire banner. There is Round Table involvement, with the Young Farmers’ Club, local Scouts (who have been involved for a number of years) and other volunteers now on board to bring the event, on Saturday, November 9, to fruition.
“Like many clubs, the Round Table has been struggling for members and an event like this puts the onus on a few; it’s a big undertaking. At a meeting it was decided they were struggling for the numbers to make it work.”
Nick said it was vital that organisations like this found more members to enable events like the annual fireworks to be held and to ensure their future going forward. “We need to get people along to make it work and get it on a firm footing for years to come; it’s too easy to let things slip because then things like this suffer.
“I’ve been making a lot of phone calls – it’s not without its challenges – but the good thing is there is lots of positivity with people wanting to make it happen and make the wheels turn. We are trying to organise a park and ride from the Humber Bridge – it’s not finalised yet – and we are still trying to firm up a local bus company to help.
“It’s more likely this year we can minimise the traffic. It’s a common problem with events like this, especially at the end when everyone wants to get away at once, but we are trying to mitigate this in different ways. We want to make it as safe and easy for people as possible.”
Nick said: “It’s been quite difficult with this being a totally separate entity – it’s starting from scratch really.” Sponsorship is welcome as well as more helping hands.
The event will take place at Humberdale Farm, Swanland, from 5.30pm, on Saturday, November 9. A Facebook post about the returning Swanland Bonfire and Firework Extravaganza said: “Get ready for an unforgettable night.
“By popular demand, Friends of Swanland Bonfire returns with an exciting new twist. Enjoy delicious food, thrilling fairground rides for all ages, and the spectacular traditional fireworks display you love. Stay tuned for ticket info—this is an event you won’t want to miss.”
Nick said: “My father always brings a steam engine and steam organ to the event. They will be there on the night.
“Now we’re hoping for better weather as it was rather a wet one last year.” People should search for Swanland Bonfire on social media – a new Instagram account is about to go live - for updates and how to book.